Discover the Exciting Ayashi On-the-Sea Road Race in Okinawa
2023-03-05 00:00 (Asia/Tokyo)
Are you looking for a unique and challenging running experience? Look no further than the Ayashi On-the-Sea Road Race in Okinawa, Japan. This exhilarating race offers runners the chance to race across water and take in the stunning views of Yonashiro Town and Heian Island.
The Ayashi On-the-Sea Road Race features three distances to choose from: a 3.8k, a 10k, and a half marathon. While the 10k and half marathon distances are geared towards more serious runners, the 3.8k is perfect for families and parents who want to run with strollers.
Event Report 2012
In 2012, the Ayashi On-the-Sea Road Race drew a record number of runners, including participants from the local U.S. military community. The race has gained popularity in recent years due to its reputation as a flat and fast PR course. But many runners also flock to this event for the chance to run across water.
The half marathon runners began their race promptly at 9am from the Yonashiro Track and Field Stadium. All three races start and end at the stadium. While the half marathon course is known for being flat and fast, runners should be aware of potential headwinds when crossing the bridge, as well as the risk of sunburn and dehydration on hot days.
The 10k race started at 9:20am, followed by the 3.8k race at 11:30am. During the race, slower 10k runners and faster half marathon runners merged onto the stadium track towards the finish line, but race officials did an excellent job of keeping things moving smoothly.
Local Running Groups
The Ayashi On-the-Sea Road Race attracts runners from all over the world, including local running groups in Okinawa. Some of the groups that participated in the 2012 event included WOOT and WOOP (Women on Okinawa Trail and Women on Okinawa Pavement), Team Concentric, IPAC (Installation Personnel Administration Center), Stroller Warriors, and Kickin’Asphalt.
Many runners who participated in the Ayashi On-the-Sea Road Race expressed their satisfaction with the event and said they would definitely return for next year’s race. If you’re interested in participating in this unique event, make sure to check the website starting in January 2023, as the race tends to sell out quickly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ayashi On-the-Sea Road Race is an exciting event that offers runners the chance to take on a unique and challenging course. With three distances to choose from, this race is perfect for runners of all levels. Plus, the stunning views of Yonashiro Town and Heian Island make this a race you won’t soon forget. So mark your calendar and get ready to register for the Ayashi On-the-Sea Road Race in Okinawa.

celebrate the 20th anniversary of Rilakkuma
2023-03-09 10:00 - 2023-04-16 21:00
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the beloved San-X character Rilakkuma, a special pop-up café event is being held in Tokyo. The Rilakkuma 20th Anniversary Café offers a range of themed food items, including a Rilakkuma honey mustard hamburger steak plate, a Korilakkuma cream pasta, a Kiiroitori egg burger, and a Chai Roikoguma cheese curry, all-priced at ¥1,870 including tax. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in these adorable and delicious Rilakkuma-themed dishes!

Takanawa Sakura Festival
2023-03-10 00:00 - 2023-04-09 00:00
The Takanawa area of Tokyo is home to three Prince Hotels: the Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa, the Grand Prince Hotel Shin-Takanawa, and the Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo. Situated between these hotels is the expansive Takanawa no Mori Park, which is especially charming during springtime when over 200 cherry blossom trees of seventeen different varieties grace the area with their ethereal beauty. Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll and appreciate the stunning cherry blossoms in this picturesque setting!

Bungotakada Nanohana Festa
2023-03-11 00:00 - 2023-04-09 00:00
Japan is famous for its beautiful spring blooms, but one flower that often gets overlooked is the nanohana, also known as rapeseed blossoms in English. These vibrant yellow flowers can be seen in many places throughout the country, and if you happen to be in Oita Prefecture, you can catch them at the Bungotakada Nanohana Festa.
At this festival, you’ll be able to see an incredible 22 million nanohana plants covering an area of 16.5 hectares, creating a stunning yellow carpet. In addition to the beautiful flowers, the festival also features food vendors and a photo competition for aspiring photographers.
If you’re looking for a unique and picturesque experience in Japan, the Bungotakada Nanohana Festa is definitely worth checking out.

Camp Zama Sakura Festival
2023-03-11 13:00 - 2023-03-25 18:30
Camp Zama is a United States army base situated about 40 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, in the cities of Zama and Sagamihara in Kanagawa Prefecture. The base boasts around 300 cherry blossom trees on its grounds, and during peak season, an annual festival is held to celebrate them. Don’t miss out on the chance to appreciate the beauty of the sakura trees and join in the festivities at Camp Zama!

Virtual Event Invite: The Future of Tokyo’s Sustainable Travel
2023-03-13
Join us for the second installment of our sustainable tourism exploration in Tokyo, where we delve into the impact of eco-tourism, architecture, and pop culture on the city’s tourism scene. This virtual event, which can be viewed on YouTube, features a range of individuals, from a tour producer to a young entrepreneur, who is committed to making Tokyo more sustainable. The hosts take viewers on a tour of the city, exploring what sustainability means and who is taking action to achieve it. Highlights include visits to Haneda Airport, Japan’s National Stadium, and pop culture hotspots.
Meet your hosts: Maria, a sales and HR professional who loves exploring Japan and its local delicacies; Veronica, a content producer with a passion for discovering new places and meeting new people; and Anna, a lover of Japanese festivals and sake who traveled extensively around Japan and the world.
Discover YOUR Tokyo, a city that is constantly changing and creating new styles by mixing modernity and tradition. Visit the Tokyo Tokyo website and Facebook page to learn more about the city and its unique charm.

Shimizu Park Sakura Festival
2023-03-18 00:00 - 2023-04-09 00:00
The Shimizu Park Sakura Festival is a wonderful celebration of spring, boasting around 2000 cherry trees with 50 different varieties to enjoy – including the highly sought-after somei yoshino type. In fact, the park is so famous for its sakura that it was named one of Japan’s Top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots way back in 1990.
Aside from the abundance of beautiful blooms to admire, the festival also features food trucks where visitors can grab a bite to eat. Additionally, there are evening illuminations that showcase the blossoms in all their glory after dark. Best of all, admission to the festival is completely free, so if you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and take in the breathtaking sights.

Van Gogh Alive
2023-03-18 10:00 - 2023-06-04 18:00
Vincent van Gogh was a famous Dutch post-impressionist painter who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Western art. The Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art is hosting a special event called Van Gogh Alive that brings some of Van Gogh’s most iconic works, including “Starry Night” and “Sunflowers,” into the digital realm. This immersive exhibition has already attracted over 8.5 million people at other events around the world. Various Van Gogh masterpieces are displayed using light, color, sound, and fragrance, providing a multi-sensory experience that is sure to impress. Visitors are encouraged to take photos throughout the venue to capture their experience.

City Light Fantasia - Spring Concerto
2023-03-18 18:00 - 2023-05-07 22:00 | 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan, 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan, Minato, Tokyo, 105-0011, Japan
The Tokyo Tower City Light Fantasia is an annual event that started in 2014 in collaboration with digital art collective NAKED. Each season, the event takes on a new theme, and for spring 2023, the theme is “Spring Concerto.” The event features projection mapping displays of plants and animals set against the stunning backdrop of the Tokyo skyline.
This year’s event promises to be exciting, with vibrant displays of cherry blossoms in full bloom. It provides visitors with a unique and digital way to enjoy one of Japan’s most famous spring highlights. The Tokyo Tower City Light Fantasia can be enjoyed with any ticket purchase to the main observation deck, which is priced at 1200 JPY for adults.
Overall, the Tokyo Tower City Light Fantasia is an excellent way to experience Japan’s unique blend of technology and traditional culture. The stunning visuals, combined with the breathtaking views of Tokyo, make for an unforgettable experience. So, make sure to check out this event if you’re in Tokyo during the spring season.

Takezaki Castle Ruins Sakura Festival
2023-03-25 10:00 - 14:00
Tara, located in Saga Prefecture, is a picturesque destination surrounded by both the Ariake Sea and the Taradake mountain range, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s also a perfect location to enjoy the sakura season, and for the ultimate experience of spring blooms, look no further than the Takezaki Castle Ruins Observatory Park.
This year marks the first ever Takezaki Castle Ruins Sakura Festival, where visitors can appreciate the stunning contrast between the cherry blossoms’ delicate pale pink and the Ariake Sea’s vivid blue. Along with the natural beauty, the festival also features an array of local foods, including delicious crab soup available for purchase.
If you’re looking for a breathtaking and unique way to experience sakura season in Saga Prefecture, be sure to check out the Takezaki Castle Ruins Observatory Park and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Iwatsuki Castle Park Sakura Festival
2023-03-25 10:00 - 2023-03-26 21:00
Iwatsuki Castle Park, located in Saitama Prefecture, is widely considered one of the best spots for sakura viewing in the region. With approximately 600 trees scattered throughout the park, visitors can witness the picturesque scenery of pink blossoms that turns the area into a magical wonderland during springtime. To celebrate this natural beauty, the park hosts an annual festival, which has been running for almost 50 years.
During the two-day festival, visitors can enjoy various activities such as food and drink booths, sales of plants, flowers, and local produce, and taiko drumming performances (on Sunday only), among others. In addition to these daytime festivities, there will be lantern illuminations from 6 pm until 9 pm. This provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the stunning beauty of the sakura blossoms in a unique and enchanting atmosphere.
Overall, the Iwatsuki Castle Park sakura festival is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of Japan and immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture. So, make sure to mark your calendar and plan your visit to this wonderful event if you’re in the area during springtime.

Maizuru Curry Festa
2023-03-26 10:00 - 15:00
Maizuru is a port city situated in the northern region of Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. Although Japanese cuisine is not usually associated with curry, it has become a popular dish in Japan, and Maizuru has its own unique history with this flavorful dish. The city is home to a significant naval base for Japan, and curry became a staple food for the sailors stationed there.
The Maizuru Curry Festa is an annual celebration of the longstanding history of this dish in the region. The event features around 30 stores, each offering their own unique take on this beloved comfort food. Whether you prefer a spicy, mild, or sweet curry, there’s sure to be something to satisfy your taste buds.
If you’re a fan of Japanese curry or just looking for a unique culinary experience, the Maizuru Curry Festa is not to be missed. Come and discover the flavors and history of this beloved dish in the beautiful port city of Maizuru.

Mt. Konpira & Setogawa Cherry Blossom Festival
2023-03-27 - 2023-04-08
Around 1000 Somei Yoshino cherry trees adorn Mount Konpira and the banks of the Seto River with their beautiful blossoms every spring, creating a stunning cherry blossom tunnel that spans two kilometers. This tunnel is said to be the largest sakura tunnel in the Tokai region. The Mount Konpira and Setogawa sakura festival takes place in early April and offers a variety of attractions such as taiko drum performances, a stage show, and a range of delicious gourmet foods to savor. In addition, visitors can enjoy a free amazake (sweet sake) service while admiring the stunning cherry blossoms. If you want a different experience, the cherry trees are also illuminated after dark, creating a magical ambiance.

Sakura Festival at Gotenyama
2023-03-27 07:00 - 2023-04-02 19:00
Tokyo offers numerous stunning locations to enjoy the sakura season, and one of the top spots in Shinagawa is the Gotenyama Garden. During peak cherry blossom season, the garden hosts a festival with various activities such as shamisen performances, after-dark illuminations, and tea ceremonies (participation through a lottery system). Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the beauty of the cherry blossoms and the lively atmosphere of the festival at Gotenyama Garden!

Happy Easter at Sanrio Harmonyland
2023-03-27 10:00 - 2023-05-30 17:00
If you happen to be in the Kyushu area during the Easter season and are searching for a fun way to celebrate, Oita’s Harmonyland amusement park has got you covered with their Happy Easter event. This event promises to be an exciting experience, featuring charming Easter costumes for various characters, Easter-themed photo spots, and limited-time merchandise and food menus.
The food menu for this event is inspired by the beloved character Gudetama and offers a range of delicious items such as Gudetama’s demiglace hamburger & omelet rice priced at ¥1650, or Gudetama’s omelet curry for ¥1550.
To attend the event, visitors simply need to purchase a regular admission ticket to the park. You can find more details regarding pricing and ticket options by visiting the Harmonyland website. The Happy Easter event at Harmonyland is an excellent way to celebrate the Easter season with friends and family while indulging in some delicious Japanese cuisine and immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Sakura Night at Shinjuku Gyoen
2023-03-31 19:00 - 2023-04-23 21:00
If you’re searching for a stunning way to admire cherry blossoms at night, the collaboration between digital art collective NAKED and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a must-see event. Shinjuku Gyoen, a renowned garden in Tokyo, boasts 900 cherry trees spanning over 70 varieties, and this event will provide an opportunity for visitors to appreciate both real sakura blossoms and projection mapping versions of them. Don’t miss out on this unique and enchanting experience!

Tsuruga Castle Cherry Blossom Festival
2023-04-01 - 2023-05-07
Tsuruga Castle, also known as Aizuwakamatsu Castle, has a long and fascinating history dating back to the 14th century. However, the current building is actually a reconstruction that was completed in 1965. Despite this, the castle’s striking black-and-white appearance and its panoramic view of the surrounding area make it a popular tourist attraction in Fukushima. Spring is an especially good time to visit the castle, as the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom and an annual festival takes place during this period. The festival offers a variety of activities, including evening sakura illuminations, sake tasting, tea ceremonies, and more. It’s worth noting that some events, such as sake tasting and tea ceremonies, are not held every day during the festival, so it’s advisable to check the official event website if you have specific activities in mind.

Machida Sakura Festival
2023-04-01 00:00 - 2023-04-02 00:00
Machida City, located in the southern part of Tokyo, can be reached in just over 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station. The area is known for its beautiful green spaces, which are showcased during the Machida Sakura Festival held in spring. The festival is held at multiple venues, including the banks of the Onda River, Ridge Green Road, and Serigaya Park, offering plenty of opportunities for attendees to admire the cherry blossoms.
The festival hours vary depending on the venue. The Onda River venue will be open from 10 am to 5 pm, Ridge Green Road from 10 am to 3:30 pm, and Serigaya Park from 10 am to 4 pm. Refreshment vendors will be available at each venue, and there will also be stage performances at Ridge Green Road and Serigaya Park.

Wonder Movie Cafe
2023-04-01 00:00 - 2023-06-25 00:00
The Walt Disney company, a global entertainment giant known for producing animated films, cartoons, and theme parks, was founded in 1923. This year, the company is celebrating its 100th anniversary. To mark this momentous occasion, a special pop-up café called the Wonder Movie Café will be coming to Omotesando for a limited time.
The Wonder Movie Café will offer a variety of themed eats and drinks, including some monochromatic options such as a soy meat burger with a black bun designed to resemble Mickey Mouse’s ears. The first stage of the café is set to run from April 1st until June 25th, with two more phases to be announced on the official event website at a later date.
For those interested in visiting the café, it is recommended to make reservations in advance. The full menu offerings and merchandise available for purchase can also be viewed on the official website. This is an excellent opportunity for Disney fans and foodies alike to celebrate the company’s 100th anniversary and indulge in some whimsical themed treats.

Odawara Oden Summit
2023-04-01 10:00 - 2023-04-02 16:00
Oden is a popular Japanese dish that is traditionally served as a one-pot meal. It consists of a variety of ingredients, such as boiled eggs, daikon radish, fish cakes, and konjac, all simmered in a delicious dashi broth. This comforting and warming dish is usually enjoyed during the colder months and can be found at street stalls or convenience stores.
If you’re a fan of oden and want to try different varieties from around the country, the Odawara Oden Summit is a must-visit event this spring. During the two-day summit, you can purchase oden dishes from various regions and find your favorite. It’s important to note that the event ends at 5 pm on the first day and 4 pm on the second day. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy this delicious and hearty dish!

Toneri Park Senbonzakura Festival
2023-04-01 10:00 - 2023-04-02 16:00
Toneri Park is a stunning and vast park located in Tokyo’s Adachi Ward, and it’s especially popular during the spring when the cherry trees are in full bloom. The park boasts around 1000 cherry trees, and an annual festival is held when the blossoms are at their peak. The festival not only provides visitors with the opportunity to appreciate the beautiful blossoms but also features over 100 booths selling food, drinks, local products, and more. Admission to the event is free, but it’s advisable to bring yen if you plan to purchase food, drinks, or souvenirs.

Fussa Sakura Festival
2023-04-01 10:00 - 2023-04-09 17:00
Fussa City is situated in the western part of Tokyo, and every year, it hosts a spectacular sakura festival that has been running for 40 years. The festival takes place along the Tama River, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful sight of cherry blossom trees lining the banks for approximately two and a half kilometers.
During the festival, which typically takes place on weekends, there are a variety of additional entertainment options, including music and dance performances, along with numerous food vendors selling popular festival foods like yakitori, yakisoba, and another delicious Japanese cuisine. There is no admission fee to attend the event, but it’s recommended to bring yen if you plan on purchasing food and drinks from the vendors. The festival is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Japan’s cherry blossoms while also immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of a traditional Japanese festival.

Audrey in Cinema
2023-04-01 10:00 - 2023-05-14 19:30
To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Audrey Hepburn’s passing in 2023, Museum EKI Kyoto is hosting a themed photo exhibition titled “Audrey in Cinema”. The exhibition will feature around 120 photographs showcasing Hepburn’s appearances in various movies, including Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Roman Holiday, among others. Admission to the exhibition is priced at ¥900, and no advance reservations are required. This is not the only exhibition dedicated to Audrey Hepburn in Japan this year – the Sano Museum of Art in Shizuoka is hosting its own exhibition from early April to mid-June.

Yokota Air Base Sakura Spring Festival
2023-04-01 11:00 - 2023-04-08 16:30
Yokota Air Base is situated in the western suburbs of Tokyo and opens its gates to the public a few times a year for special events. One such event is the Sakura Spring Festival, which celebrates the picturesque promenade of cherry blossom trees that line the road toward the base’s east gate. The festival also highlights the strong relationship between the United States and Japan, as well as the friendship between the base and the local community.
In addition to the breathtaking cherry blossoms, the Sakura Spring Festival features local farmer’s market vendors, a range of Japanese and American foods available for purchase, and a variety of entertainment and activities. Both US dollars and yen are accepted as payment by vendors, and entrance to the event is free of charge. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to celebrate spring and the special bond between two great nations!

Barbie Exhibition
2023-04-01 11:00 - 2023-07-02 20:00
Barbie has been a beloved toy for many years, first introduced in 1959, and has since taken on various professions and roles. In the beginning, she was a fashion model, flight attendant, and nurse. Over the years, Barbie has broken through gender biases by taking on new careers, including doctor, astronaut, veterinarian, and even president of the United States.
An exciting exhibition, titled “who do you want to be?”, is currently taking place at the Itochu SDG’s Studio in Tokyo, showcasing Barbie’s diverse range of occupations. The exhibition aims to inspire visitors to consider their own potential and aspirations while challenging gender stereotypes, just as Barbie has done throughout her existence.
Admission to the exhibition is free, making it accessible to all who wish to explore the world of Barbie and her impact on gender representation in the toy industry.

Atsugi Air Base Spring Festival
2023-04-02 11:00 - 2023-04-23 18:30
Atsugi Air Base is a joint United States Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force base located in Kanagawa Prefecture. Established in 1938, the base hosts an annual spring festival where the gates are opened to the public. Visitors can enjoy aircraft displays, live music performances, and a variety of other activities such as sales of American and Japanese foods, and tea ceremony demonstrations.
It’s important to note that while this is an open base event, valid photo identification (only for attendees aged 16 and above) is required for entry. Accepted forms of identification include a driver’s license, passport, my number card, or residence card. However, entry to the festival is free of charge, making it a great opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of a military base and enjoy a fun-filled day with family and friends.

Asahi Funagawa Spring Quartet
2023-04-03 00:00 - 2023-04-16 00:00
Toyama Prefecture is home to a stunning display of natural beauty during the spring months. In the late 1950s, 280 Yoshino cherry trees were planted along the banks of the Funagawa River, spanning over a kilometer in length. Visitors can also enjoy other colorful blooms such as tulips and nanohana, set against the backdrop of the majestic Japanese Alps.
The Asahi Funagawa Spring Quartet event is a celebration of the season and runs for two weeks in April. The highlight of the festival is the evening of April 8th, when bonfires are lit along the riverbank to illuminate the sakura trees. This creates a magical and romantic atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the cherry blossom viewing experience.
Admission to the event is completely free, making it an accessible and budget-friendly option for travelers. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of Japanese springtime, the Asahi Funagawa Spring Quartet event is definitely worth checking out.

Accidentally Wes Anderson Exhibition
2023-04-05 11:00 - 2023-05-26 19:00
Wes Anderson is a film director known for his unique and recognizable style, as seen in movies like The Royal Tenenbaums, The Darjeeling Limited, and The Grand Budapest Hotel. His aesthetic features symmetrical shots, pastel colors, whimsical details, and retro elements. This style has inspired an Instagram account called @accidentallywesanderson, where followers submit their own Wes Anderson-esque findings in real life.
An exhibition at Shinagawa’s Warehouse Terrada will showcase around 300 submissions from the Instagram account. Visitors will be able to appreciate and immerse themselves in the world of Wes Anderson’s aesthetic. Admission to the event is priced at ¥2000 for adults, ¥1500 for university students, and ¥1000 for high school students and below. Children under preschool age receive free admission.

Mino Festival
2023-04-08 - 2023-04-09
The Mino Festival is an annual event on the second Saturday and Sunday of April. One of the festival’s main highlights is the flower mikoshi, which are portable shrines adorned with 250-300 sakura-inspired washi paper flowers. These mikoshi are paraded around the city, creating the illusion of cherry blossoms swaying in the breeze. On the first day of the event, the flower mikoshi is on display from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., while another mikoshi is showcased on the second day. Mino is famous for its washi paper industry, with the Hon Minoshi type receiving UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status in 2014. Notably, only three washi styles in Japan have been granted this honor.

Nyuzen Flower Road
2023-04-08 00:00 - 2023-04-30 00:00
Toyama Prefecture in Japan is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, and during the spring months, the region truly comes alive with an explosion of colorful blooms. One must-visit festival in the area is the Nyuzen Flower Road event, which showcases an astounding 2.3 million tulips covering approximately 70 different varieties. The vibrant flowers stretch across an area of over 5 hectares, with the majestic Japanese Alps forming a stunning backdrop.
The best time to visit the Nyuzen Flower Road event is in the middle of April, when the tulips are likely to be at their peak bloom. This is an excellent opportunity to witness the beauty of spring in Japan and immerse yourself in a sea of vibrant colors.
What’s more, admission to the event is completely free, making it an accessible and budget-friendly option for travelers. Although the event has a specified start date, the end date is listed as “late April”, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly if you want to catch this awe-inspiring display of nature’s beauty.
